Speed Up Kolmani Oil Project, Bauchi Urges Federal Govt

The Bauchi State government has called on the federal government to accelerate the development of the Kolmani Oil Field, a vital energy asset between Bauchi and Gombe States. The state government emphasised the field’s enormous potential for national economic growth and regional transformation.

The State Commissioner appealed for Natural Resources Development, Hon. Muhammad Maiwada Bello, who represented Bauchi State at the 19th Edition of the OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week 2025, held at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

According to a statement issued by the ministry, the commissioner commended the federal government for its groundbreaking investment in the Kolmani Integrated Development Project, describing it as a catalyst for industrial expansion, job creation, and increased revenue for both the state and the nation.

He stressed that speeding up the project’s implementation would unlock vast socio-economic opportunities and enhance the country’s energy security.

He further highlighted Governor Bala Mohammed’s commitment to positioning Bauchi as a model for energy-driven industrialisation in northern Nigeria.

According to him, the state government has implemented strategic reforms, built critical infrastructure, and established an investor-friendly environment to attract local and foreign capital.

He added that among the administration’s notable achievements is the establishment of the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy, Alkaleri, which aims to train a skilled workforce capable of meeting the energy sector’s growing demands.

“The academy is envisioned as a regional centre of excellence, bridging the gap between academia and industry while promoting innovation and technical expertise,” Bello added.

He further announced that the state government is also working towards establishing an Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone in Alkaleri Local Government Area. The initiative is designed to attract global investors, foster technology transfer, and stimulate industrial growth, making Bauchi a key player in Nigeria’s energy landscape.

Bello revealed that the Bala Mohammed-led administration has secured partnerships with international firms, including the China Fuhai Energy Group, which has pledged over $2 billion to develop a Petrochemical City Complex in the state. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs, boost local capacity, and enhance technological advancement.

To strengthen the state’s energy infrastructure further, the commissioner disclosed plans for the Alkaleri-Jigawa-Kano (AJK) Pipeline Project, which will connect with the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline.

He said the linkage will facilitate the establishment of refineries, gas plants, and fertiliser industries, positioning Bauchi as a significant energy hub in northern Nigeria.

Commissioner Bello reaffirmed the government’s dedication to maintaining a transparent, secure, and investor-friendly climate. “We are not waiting for investors to come. We are building the road to meet them,” he stated.

Bello lauded the forum for promoting collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnerships that advance transformative energy projects across the continent.